Washington County High School senior George Johnson received a music scholarship to attend Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. Johnson, who has played the drums in church since the age of 4, auditioned in November of 2013 to attend the private, Christian university, and recently received his letter of acceptance and monetary scholarship award. Johnson said, “I want to go and experience something new. My family has friends in Virginia and it was a great fit for me.”

Johnson credits WCHS Director of Bands, Marcus Rayner, with his success. “He made me realize I could succeed in college.” Rayner challenged Johnson to continue to put God first in his life and maintain the excellence in all he does. George credits his brother Arrison Walden, and friends Zack Hawkins and Clifford Duckworth for their encouragement and support.

“George is one of the most respectful and dedicated students I have taught—never wavering when it came to his responsibilities with the band and classroom ethic,” Rayner commented. “You are forging the path for other students to follow and for this, I commend you,” Rayner concluded.

George began his school music career in the 7th grade and was encouraged by his sister, Whitney Williams, to join her in the high school marching band, which he did his 7th grade year. “My most exciting moment was to play at half-time of the BCS national championship game in front of 80,000+ people. It was a great feeling!” he said.

Johnson is the son of George Johnson, Sr. and Joey and Teresa Asberry. He has been on the Merit List at WCHS all four years and played basketball. He attends Kingdom Life Fellowship Ministries Church where he continues to play percussion and piano. He plans to graduate from Liberty University and teach music.